Airline-approved car seats meet Federal Aviation Administration safety standards and can be used as a seat for your child during flight

An airline-approved car seat is a child restraint that meets FAA requirements and can be installed in an airplane seat instead of holding your child in your lap. The seat must display a label stating it is approved for use on aircraft — this label is usually on the back or side of the seat. Not all car seats that are safe for cars are approved for planes; the FAA has specific structural and installation requirements that differ from road safety standards.

You do not need to buy a special car seat just for flying. Most modern car seats sold in the United States are FAA-approved, but you must check the label before you travel. If your seat does not have an approval label, contact the manufacturer or check their website — they can tell you whether your model meets FAA standards.

Using an approved car seat on a plane requires a separate ticket for your child. Airlines will not allow you to use the seat in an empty seat next to you without paying for that seat. The cost is typically the same as a child or adult ticket, depending on the airline's pricing structure.

Key Takeaways

  • An FAA approval label on the car seat is the only way to confirm it meets airline safety standards — the label is usually on the back or side of the seat.
  • Using a car seat on a plane requires purchasing a separate ticket for your child; airlines will not permit the seat in an unpaid seat.
  • The car seat must be installed in a window seat, never in an aisle or middle seat, and the seat belt or LATCH system must find it to the airplane seat.
  • Some airlines have specific rules about which car seats they accept or how they must be installed, so contact your airline before you travel.
  • If you do not want to buy a ticket for a car seat, you can check it as baggage and hold your child in your lap during the flight.

How to identify an FAA-approved car seat

Look for a label on the car seat that says "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft" or similar language. The label will typically be on the back of the seat or on the side. If you cannot find a label, check the manufacturer's website or call their customer service line — they can confirm whether your specific model and year are FAA-approved.

The FAA maintains a list of approved car seats, but it is not a searchable database that consumers can access directly. Instead, manufacturers are responsible for labeling their products correctly. If a seat is labeled as approved, it has met FAA testing standards for structural integrity, installation security, and performance in a simulated aircraft environment.

Booster seats and backless boosters are generally not FAA-approved for airplane use. The FAA typically approves only forward-facing and rear-facing convertible car seats, as well as some combination seats. Harness-based seats designed for older children may also be approved — check the label on your specific model.

Purchasing a ticket and reserving the right seat

When you book your flight, you will need to purchase a separate ticket for your child if you want to use a car seat. This ticket costs the same as a regular child or adult ticket, depending on your airline's pricing. Some airlines allow you to purchase this ticket at the same time you book your own seat; others require you to call the airline directly.

Request a window seat for the car seat. The FAA requires that car seats be installed only in window seats, never in aisle or middle seats. Window seats provide the structural support needed and keep the car seat from blocking the aisle in case of an emergency evacuation. When you call the airline or check in, tell them you will be using a car seat so they can assign you the correct seat location.

Some airlines have restrictions on which rows allow car seats — for example, some do not permit them in bulkhead rows or exit rows. Contact your airline before you travel to confirm that your assigned seat is suitable for a car seat installation.

Installing the car seat on the airplane

Airplane seats are narrower than car seats, so installation requires care. Most car seats can be secured using the airplane seat belt, which threads through the belt path on the car seat the same way a car's seat belt would. Some newer car seats also work with LATCH connectors, but airplane seats do not have LATCH attachment points — you must use the seat belt.

Before you board, read the car seat manufacturer's instructions for airplane installation. Many manufacturers provide specific guidance on how to thread the seat belt and how tight to find it. The car seat should not move more than one inch side to side or front to back when you push on it after installation.

Arrive at the gate early so you have time to install the seat without rushing. Flight attendants can help you position the seat, but they are not responsible for ensuring it is installed correctly — that is your responsibility. If you are unsure about the installation, ask a flight attendant to watch while you find it.

What to do if your airline has restrictions

Some airlines have specific policies about car seats that differ from FAA rules. For example, some airlines may not allow certain types of seats or may have rules about installation in specific rows. A few airlines have their own approval process separate from the FAA label.

Contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight to ask about their car seat policy. You can find this information on the airline's website under baggage or special items, or you can call their customer service line. Ask whether your specific car seat model is permitted and whether there are any restrictions on where it can be installed.

If your airline does not permit your car seat, you have two options: check the seat as baggage and hold your child in your lap during the flight, or purchase a different car seat that meets your airline's requirements. Some families rent car seats at their destination instead of traveling with one.

Checking a car seat as baggage instead of using it on the plane

If you do not want to purchase a ticket for a car seat, you can check it as baggage. Most airlines allow one car seat to be checked for free as part of your baggage allowance, though policies vary. The seat should be placed in a protective bag or checked in its original box to prevent damage.

When you check a car seat, you will not be able to use it during the flight. Your child will sit in your lap or in a regular airplane seat if they are old enough and you have purchased a ticket for them. The FAA does not require children to be restrained during flight, but it does recommend that children under two sit in an approved car seat or harness for safety during turbulence and takeoff.

Checked car seats are subject to the same damage rules as other baggage. If the seat is damaged during transport, you can file a claim with the airline, though compensation is typically limited. Some families purchase inexpensive travel car seats specifically for flying to avoid checking their primary car seat.

Car seat rental and travel alternatives

If you do not want to travel with a car seat, you can rent one at your destination. Car rental companies, hotels, and specialized rental services offer car seats for daily or weekly rates. Rental costs typically range from $10 to $20 per day, depending on the location and seat type. You will need to reserve the seat in advance, especially during busy travel periods.

Some families purchase a lightweight, compact car seat specifically for travel. These seats are designed to be portable and take up less luggage space than full-size car seats. They still must meet FAA standards if you plan to use them on an airplane, so check the label before you buy.

If you are traveling with an infant under two months old, check with your airline about their policies. Some airlines have restrictions on very young infants, and you may need to provide a birth certificate or medical clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to buy a ticket for a car seat?

Yes, if you want to use the car seat on the plane. Airlines do not permit car seats in empty seats without a paid ticket. If you do not want to purchase a ticket, you can check the seat as baggage and hold your child in your lap during the flight.

Can I use a booster seat on an airplane?

Most booster seats are not FAA-approved for airplane use. Check the label on your booster seat to see if it has an FAA approval statement. If it does not, you cannot use it on the plane, but you can check it as baggage.

What if the car seat does not fit in the airplane seat?

Airplane seats are narrower than car seats, so some seats may be tight. If the seat does not fit, contact the airline before you travel — they can tell you whether your specific seat model will work on their aircraft. You may need to use a different car seat or check the seat as baggage instead.

Can I install the car seat in the middle or aisle seat?

No. The FAA requires car seats to be installed only in window seats. Aisle and middle seats do not provide the structural support needed and block emergency evacuation routes. Request a window seat when you book your flight.

What happens if my car seat is damaged during the flight?

If the seat is damaged while you are using it on the plane, report the damage to the airline before you leave the airport. If you checked the seat as baggage, you can file a baggage damage claim. Compensation is typically limited, so consider purchasing travel insurance if you are concerned about damage to an expensive car seat.